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there are bad people in the world, you're not one of them. He will look to you for guidance and assurance.

IGNORE FEARFULNESS

When he exhibits timid behavior, don't suck him up and try to baby him out of his fear. If you make a big deal of it, trying to comfort him, you only reinforce his fears. He can't understand what you're saying to him, just the tone and manner it is spoken in. He will get the impression his feelings are justified, and it's okay to feel this way. Ignore it like it's no big deal and he'll learn to do the same.

PRAISE THE GOOD

When he does show some curiosity and ventures from his comfort zone, offer him praise, but don't overdo it. Too much will overwhelm him, causing him to be fearful. Give him a treat, a gentle pet, or a simple "good boy". Whether he approaches you for some attention or ventures to explore unfamiliar territory, he's facing his fears and deserves recognition. With all this positive reinforcement he'll slowly come around.

PROVIDE POSITIVE OUTCOMES

Steps need to be taken to raise his confidence level. Expose him to some socializing in a controlled setting and provide positive experiences. Take him for short walks, where he will experience other dogs and people. When he gets nervous and timid about something or someone, don't make a big deal over it, and just continue on. Enjoy some playtime and some quiet time together. The more situations he deals with, and no bad outcome results, he'll learn the world, and your home isn't such a bad place.

SOCIALIZE

Provide him opportunities to socialize with other dogs and people. When visitors come to the house, allow him to greet them on his terms. Don't force the issue by insisting he come and say hello. Wait until he builds his confidence, and approaches the newcomer. He'll feel more at ease if he has some control over the situation. In the case of other dogs, don't just take him to the dog park and unleash him. He must feel comfortable with other dogs. Introduce him to dogs who are leashed, and allow him to enjoy a pleasant, non threatening experience. Eventually he'll come to learn he can interact with other dogs, with no harm coming his way.

LEADERSHIP

Dogs are pack animals, and need a leader to follow. Be the confident and fearless leader he looks to for guidance. When he senses this from you, he'll follow your lead.

Rescue dogs can come with a lot of extra baggage. With your reassurance and patience, your timid dog can emerge from his shell with confidence. He'll be ready to let go of that baggage because he's found a sense of belonging in your home and your heart.

Learn more about this author, Erin Knight.
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